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NOTICE:  Hickory Ridge Pond is now OPEN.

Hidden Springs State Forest (formerly known as Shelby State Forest) consists of approximately 1,200 acres of land near Clarksburg, 10 miles southeast of Shelbyville in Shelby County.

History

The name Hidden Springs was selected because of the property's seven known springs which were used for drinking water by the early settlers. Over the years these springs have been covered over by natural situation and vegetation (hence the name "Hidden Springs"). Rocky Spring and Quicksand Spring have access trails.

The entire forest area originally was planned as a state lake, but these plans were altered when the construction began on Shelbyville Reservoir. The property was assigned to the Division of Forestry in 1960 to be managed as a state forest. Following reorganization of the department in 1975, the property was reassigned to the Division of Land and Historic Sites. The area continues to be managed under the concept of multiple-use --- sound

Directions

Direction to Hidden Springs State Forest. From Interstate 57 .Get off of I57 at Mattoon Exit Go west on Route 16 thru Mattoon, continue on Route 16 west thru the town of Gays , through the next town of Windsor. Two miles west of Windsor Route 16 Junctions with 32 South. Turn left on 32 . Go 4 miles through the town of Strasburg Proceed 2 miles , turn right off of Route 32 Brown Information signs for Hidden Springs. 4 miles on this road you will be at drive to the office of Hidden Springs State Forest.

Please This area is for all to enjoy. Keep all vehicles on gravel roads, pads, or parking lots. Put all litter in the nearest available trash container. No plants, flowers, shrubs, or trees may be removed or damaged. Always be careful with any type of fire and report fires to the forest headquarters as soon as possible. If you need help, or have a question, feel free to contact the forest superintendent.

Park Information:

East Central Illinois

2438 E 700N Rd.

Strasburg

62465

217-644-3091
Email

39.315

-88.693

Hidden Springs Site Map Small

Other Parks in Illinois:

Map of Illinois DNR Regions State Parks in Northwestern IllinoisState Parks in Northeastern IllinoisState Parks in East Central IllinoisState Parks in West Central IllinoisState Parks in Southern Illinois